What Google As an ISP Means For Sports Fans

Google, Inc. is synonymous in today's American society as big. So it should come as no surprise when today, the Internet search giant has announced plans to create its own Internet Service Provider network. This could spell trouble for ISP magnates like Comcast, Verizon, and AT&T.

Most news outlets are reporting the following benefits of a cheaper, quicker ISP that Google is attempting to offer:

The casual sports fan should be thrilled by the second point. No FCC Broadcast licensing means that Google will have the freedom to broadcast and carry any sporting event already broadcast on another service provider. So, if you find yourself stuck in an airport, on a train, or in a network blackout, Google's ISP, much like ESPN360, could provide an avenue to watch the sporting event of your choice.

The ISP could eventually feature video on demand possibly exclusive to the network. For example the NFL could sign a broadcasting rights deal with Google rather than CBS or FOX, and all NFL games could be simulcast on a Google TV feature,(like Apple TV) and a streaming channel via their own ISP network for easy viewing on any computer equipped with Google's ISP.

Imagine a day where Google has all four major sports leagues, and broadcast rights to the 4 major golf and tennis tournaments, and effectively would take over the sports media market completely. If Google is successful, this ISP could spell the end of blacked out games and inaccessible broadcasts on the go.

Although it is far in the future, this day could come sooner than you think.